From Phi Phi : Full Day tour by Speed Boat with Lunch

If you’re looking to explore the stunning Phi Phi Islands in a single day, a full-day speedboat tour offers an exciting way to see multiple highlights without the hassle of planning transfers or boat hires on your own. This particular tour, offered by Actraveler, promises an 8-hour adventure packed with snorkeling, scenic stops, and a traditional Thai lunch. While reviews are mixed, they highlight some standout elements that can help you decide if this trip is right for you.

Our review focuses on the core experience—what you can expect, the pros and cons, and tips to make your day as smooth as possible. We love the chance to visit Maya Bay and Pileh Lagoon, the thrill of snorkeling near sharks, and the intimacy of small group sizes. On the flip side, some travelers point out the limitations when it comes to timing and the tour’s value compared to expectations. This experience suits active travelers who want to pack a lot into one day and don’t mind a bit of a crowd or some logistical quirks.

Good To Know

• Small group sizes (limited to 25 people) help create a more personalized vibe.
• Varied itinerary with stops at iconic spots like Maya Bay, Viking Cave, and Shark Point.
• Snorkeling opportunities with vibrant marine life and even blacktip reef sharks.
• Flexible departure times to suit different schedules.
• Cost considerations include an additional 400 THB park fee and optional sunset or plankton snorkeling.
• Weather-dependent scheduling means some plans might shift or cancel.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from This Phi Phi Speedboat Tour

This tour packs a lot into a single day, making it ideal for travelers eager to see the main highlights without overstaying. Starting early around 6:30 to 12:30 PM from the McDonald’s on Koh Phi Phi, the trip covers about 8 hours of island hopping, swimming, and relaxing. The small group setting—limited to 25 travelers—aims to keep the experience intimate, which is a plus if you prefer avoiding large crowds.

Itinerary Breakdown

The day begins with a 30-minute visit to Monkey Beach, where you’ll spot wild monkeys playing along the shoreline. Reviewers mention the playful nature of the monkeys, and some even appreciate the photo opportunities. Be aware that some reviews note the beach can be crowded or noisy, especially during peak hours.

Next, you’ll head to the Viking Cave for around 30 minutes. Here, you’ll learn about the cave’s cultural significance and see the ancient paintings on limestone walls. However, access to the cave’s interior is limited, and some reviews mention that not all may find the visit as engaging as other stops. One reviewer noted that the Viking Cave is closed to travelers (likely during off-peak seasons or due to conservation), which was never explicitly explained beforehand, leading to some disappointment.

The Pileh Lagoon is where the tour shines. With about 40 minutes allocated, you’ll be able to snorkel in the clear waters and admire the colorful marine life. The lagoon’s calm, turquoise waters provide a beautiful setting for photos and floating around. Many find this to be a highlight, with the shallow waters ideal for snorkeling, especially for beginners.

From there, you’ll sail to Loh Samah Bay for a short stop, then proceed to Maya Bay, the star of the show. Although the bay can be crowded, it’s an iconic picture-perfect spot with soft white sand and towering cliffs. Reviewers mention they appreciated the free time to relax and take photos but also note that during high season, the number of visitors can diminish the sense of tranquility.

The next stop is Shark Point, where snorkeling allows you to swim with blacktip reef sharks—a thrill for many. Guides are on hand to ensure safety, and some reviews mention the sharks are quite docile when observed from a safe distance. For those interested, snorkelers can also experience the glowing plankton (available on certain departure times), which some call “magical,” especially as the sun sets.

On the way back, you’ll visit Bamboo Island, with around an hour to enjoy its pristine beaches, followed by short stops at Nui Bay and other scenic spots like Wang Long Bay, before concluding the trip at the original meeting point.

The Highlights: What Makes This Tour Worthwhile

Diverse Stops for All Interests

Whether you’re into wildlife, photography, or marine life, this itinerary offers a little bit of everything. The chance to see playful monkeys and learn about the cave’s historic art** adds cultural flavor to an otherwise nature-focused day.

More Great Tours Nearby

Snorkeling in Clear Waters

The lagoon and Shark Point provide prime opportunities to see tropical fish, corals, and even the sharks. We loved the way guides emphasized safety while letting us explore freely. Some reviews mention only snorkeling at one spot, but most seem satisfied with the variety.

Small Group Experience

A limit of 25 travelers means fewer crowds and more personalized attention. Many reviewers appreciated the crew’s attentiveness and professionalism, noting guides like “taking care of the boat” and providing helpful advice during snorkeling.

Flexible Departure Times & Options

With multiple departure times—6:30, 8:30, 10:00, 11:00, and 12:30—you can choose a schedule that fits your plans. Plus, the optional sunset and plankton snorkeling add a special touch if you’re keen to extend your day or catch a unique activity.

The Practicalities: What This Tour Means for You

Transportation and Timing

The tour departs from the McDonald’s on Koh Phi Phi, with meeting points around 30 minutes prior. The boat itself is described as small, which can be charming but might feel cramped if you’re sensitive to tight spaces. The overall duration of about 6 to 8 hours means you’ll need to be prepared for a full day of activity.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With only 25 people, the experience feels more personal than larger group tours. This can enhance interactions with guides and fellow travelers, making it easier to ask questions and get recommendations.

Cost and Value

The tour price includes most major stops, but remember the 400 THB National Park fee is extra and paid in cash. The included lunch is a typical Thai meal—some reviews mention it was tasty, while others found it basic, with rice and chicken (or no chicken). Given the price, this seems reasonable, but don’t expect gourmet fare.

Weather & Seasonality

The tour schedule can change depending on weather conditions. Rain might cause delays or cancellations, and some activities like snorkeling with plankton are weather-dependent. Maya Bay’s closure from August 1 to September 30, 2025, means you’ll only see the bay from a boat during that time.

What the Reviews Reveal

While most travelers find the tour enjoyable, reviews highlight some areas to consider. Several mention that the Viking Cave was closed to travelers, which was disappointing, especially since it was part of the promised itinerary. Another reviewer pointed out that some stops felt rushed, with barely enough time for photos or swimming.

The value for money is a mixed bag. One reviewer called the tour “not worth the price,” citing the food and the small boat size, while others praised the professionalism of guides and the beautiful scenery. The snorkeling with sharks stands out as a memorable part of the day, and many appreciate the small-group environment.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is best suited for adventurous travelers eager to see multiple highlights in a single day. If you’re comfortable with boat rides and enjoy snorkeling or wildlife spotting, you’ll likely find this experience rewarding. It’s also ideal for those who prefer a quieter, more personalized tour setting.

However, if you’re seeking luxury, a more relaxed pace, or exclusive access to certain areas (like Maya Bay’s interior), you might find this tour a bit underwhelming. It’s pragmatic for travelers who want to maximize their time and see as much as possible without fuss.

Final Thoughts

This speedboat tour around the Phi Phi Islands offers a solid mix of scenery, wildlife, and snorkeling for a reasonable price. The small groups and multiple stops make it a good choice for those who want an active, engaging day. While some reviews point out the occasional lack of transparency or rushed stops, most travelers enjoy the stunning views, friendly guides, and opportunity to swim with sharks.

For travelers who appreciate authentic experiences and value the chance to explore several locations in one day, this tour provides a practical and memorable option. Just remember to bring cash for the park fee, a sunhat, and your sense of adventure.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
You can choose from departure times starting at 6:30, 8:30, 10:00, 11:00, or 12:30, with most tours meeting 30 minutes prior at McDonald’s Koh Phi Phi.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a Thai lunch is included in the tour. Some reviewers mention it’s simple—rice with chicken or no chicken—but generally considered sufficient for a day of activity.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately 6 to 8 hours, depending on weather conditions and the specific day’s schedule.

What are the main stops during the tour?
Stops include Monkey Beach, Viking Cave, Pileh Lagoon, Maya Bay, Shark Point, Bamboo Island, Nui Bay, and Wae Long Bay.

Can I snorkel at all the stops?
Snorkeling is available at Pileh Lagoon, Shark Point, and Nui Bay. The highlight is snorkeling with blacktip reef sharks at Shark Point.

Are there any additional fees?
Yes, a 400 THB National Park fee is payable in cash, covering access to Maya Bay and other park areas.

Is Maya Bay open for walking on the beach?
No, Maya Bay is closed to visitors on land from August 1 to September 30, 2025, but you can view it from the boat.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, sun hat, towel, sunscreen, beachwear, and cash for the park fee.

Is the tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
No, it’s not recommended for pregnant women, children under 1 year, or those with mobility issues.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Weather can cause schedule changes or cancellations. Rain tends to be brief, but unsafe conditions will result in rescheduling or refunds.

This Phi Phi speedboat tour offers a practical way to see the best in one day, with some trade-offs in timing and comfort. It’s perfect for energetic travelers eager to tick off multiple bucket-list spots in a fun, guided environment.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby